by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
Thousands of fireworks fans of all ages were able on Independence Day to inspect and experience the improvements made to Friendship Park on the Southbank.
The renovation was a $3.1 million investment made by the City to restore the fountain and improve it from the original water feature that debuted in 1965, and to make the park more attractive to visitors by removing much of the concrete and replacing it with grass and other landscaping.
Lighting has also been improved with the installation of energy-efficient LED fixtures throughout the park. The fountain also is illuminated with LEDs, a decision the designers of the renovation, JBC Planning & Engineering, said would pay off in a short period of time.
“It’s the greenest option in terms of efficiency because LEDs use a fraction of the energy” required by incandescent light, said Nicholas Mousa, project manager.
“It’s a larger initial investment, but the energy cost savings should recoup that investment for the City within five years,” he said.
Most City parks are open sunrise-sunset seven days a week, but because of the light and music elements that are part of the fountain at Friendship Park, hours are 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 7 a.m.-midnight Friday-Sunday.
356-2466